Ilkay Gundogan set to reject FC Barcelona and wants to extend his Manchester City contract

Germany international midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is reportedly set to open talks over extending his contract at Manchester City, according to The Sun.

The defending Premier League champions, who take on newly promoted Fulham at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday (15:00), have been boosted by the news that their star is set to reject interest from La Liga champions FC Barcelona ahead of the January transfer window.

The 27-year-old, who has 29 international caps for his country, has provided one assist in five appearances in all competitions for The Citizens so far this season.

Gundogan, who joined City from Borussia Dortmund back in June 2016 following his reported £20m transfer, has scored 11 goals in 69 outings overall for Pep Guardiola’s side.

The report claims the central midfielder is set to snub Barcelona’s interest ahead of the New Year market and wants to extend his contract at the Etihad Stadium.

The German’s current deal expires in June 2020, and is worth £90,000-a-week.

Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan speaks with manager Pep Guardiola on the touchline.

Despite interest from the likes of Barca, AC Milan and clubs back in the Bundesliga, Gundogan is happy to remain at City under boss Guardiola, and is aiming to commit his long-term future to the club on improved terms.

A City source told The Sun, “Ilkay is happy here and the club want to keep him.

“There is interest in him but it is expected he will stay.

“He loves playing under Pep, but who wouldn’t? He also enjoys living in Manchester and the city and club as a whole.

“There’s still a couple of years left on his contract but he has been great since joining and it won’t be long until it’s all sorted we hope.”

Gundogan, who has won a Premier League title, the EFL Cup and the FA Community Shield at City, is now valued at £36m.

Written by Dan Church Follow @DJChurch94